The Spice Square is a vibrant, colourful area of Marrakech.
The Spice Square, also known as Rahba Kedima, is a smaller market located a few minutes walk away from Jamaa El Fna at the end of Souk Semmarine.
It is here that you will find a wonderful selection of spices, including saffron, cumin, and turmeric.
The spices are beautifully displayed in pyramids around the square, and the air is fragrant with the scent of incense.
There are dried herbs, oils, potions, tea, and the traditional Moroccan lip stain.
The Spice Square is the traditional apothecary of Marrakech and a treasure trove of Moroccan culture.
In the Spice Square, you will also find hand woven baskets, hats, baby tortoises, and a range of shops selling Amazigh jewellery and other stuff.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
It is a vibrant, colourful market with a less frantic pace than Jamaa El Fna.
It is home to popular restaurants like the Cafe Des Espices, a rooftop restaurant that overlooks the market.
Nomad is also in close proximity to the Spice Square.
The Spice Square is not far from the Medersa Ben Youseff and Marrakech museum, so it’s ideal for making it part of your day when visiting both of these attractions.
Until the 20th century, Rahba Kedima was the cities grain market and the place where slaves were sold.
It is now the epicentre of the medina where you can pick up the famous Moroccan spice blend ras el hanout and watch the spice sellers who come down from the mountain villages at 4.00 in the afternoon to sell their trade to the professionals.
The smells and colours are heady with friendly vendors, demonstrating the benefits of eucalyptus.
The Spice Square is a photogenic place where you will be met with a glimpse of trading traditions from the past.
It’s the perfect balance between a bustling market experience and a relaxing, more laid-back atmosphere.
This quieter area of Marrakech is often overlooked by tourists.
Tinsmiths Square is located to the south of Jamaa El Fna.
It is within the Mellah, the oldest Jewish quarter of Marrakech.
It is here that skilled artisans make their wares to sell using traditional methods passed down through generations.
Beautifully crafted jewellery, lamps, and traditional daggers made from copper and tinplate are skillfully handcrafted in this fascinating area of the city.
Tinsmiths Square presents a calmer alternative to Jamaa El Fna with palm trees lining the pedestrian friendly walkway.
It connects the old Jewish district with the Muslim quarter.
Tinsmiths Square is a colourful, vibrant area with lots of spice shops, rooftop restaurants, and shops selling intricately carved items made in small workshops.
There are comfortable benches around the square to sit and take in the sights and sounds of authentic life here and a central fountain.
Cats roam freely across the square and are a popular sight, lazing in the plant pots and flower beds.
Sometimes, they are quite cheeky and make themselves comfortable on tourist’s laps.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Fun games occasionally take place, and the square sometimes hosts events.
Place des Ferblantiers is close to popular sightseeing spots like The Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace, and The Saadian Tombs.
The Kasbah is just a short walk away.
I love Tinsmiths Square.
There are some great cafes and restaurants and I have bought some perfect souvenirs here.
There is a great vibe, and the pace is much more relaxed than in the densely packed medina.
Video by Freebird Tracey.
I was spoilt for choice with all the fragrant spice shops selling everything from eucalyptus to argan oil.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
I even found a street vendor selling the tastiest dates I’d ever tried.
If you want a feeling of authentic life in Marrakech and a slower, less touristic place to spend a few hours, don’t miss out on visiting Tinsmiths Square.
I have featured a few articles in my blog recommending places to dine in this area and places of interest to visit.
An authentic district of Marrakech with more local people.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The Kasbah is a quieter part of Marrakech, with fewer tourists than the medina.
Staying in the Kasbah, you feel totally immersed in the culture of Marrakech as you rub shoulders with the friendly locals.
There are plenty of restaurants and shops including a good fixed price store selling everything you will find in the souks at a realistic price.
*See my separate post on Dar Bouchaib.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Inside the Kasbah, you can visit tourist attractions like the Saadian tombs and El Badi Palace.
Zeitoune Cafe overlooking the mosque is a lovely spot for lunch or a drink whilst taking a break from sightseeing.
Sitting outside on the colourful cushions people watching in the Moroccan sun was quite an experience.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The kasbah is about 15 to 20 minutes leisurely walking from the main square with plenty to see along the way.
The walk is interesting, with many shops and vendors selling all kinds of stuff.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
In the kasbah, there are a range of budget and high-end riads to stay in.
It is definitely quieter than the medina.
I stayed in Riad Hikaya, it was absolutely lovely and a totally relaxing few days for me.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
*See my separate article about staying at Riad Hikaya.
The Kasbah is the historical citadel in Marrakesh with fortified walls.
The narrow alleyways make it an exciting place to visit, and there are fewer motorcycles and donkeys trying to negotiate the streets at the same time as you, making it less stressful than the medina.
There are plenty of good restaurants to enjoy nice food so you won’t have to go too far.
The Kasbah is home to the Clock restaurant and its legendary camel burger and storytelling evenings.
Also, the Kasbah Cafe is a popular place for lunch and dinner.
Krepchy does a fantastic breakfast, and the prices are very reasonable.
I highly recommend the waffles.
To return from the medina, consider taking a tuk-tuk if the weather is hot.
It’s quite an adventure in itself as you rattle along the bumpy streets.
Spending an hour or two enjoying this interesting area of Marrakech is definitely worth it.
The locals are very friendly, and it was a pleasure getting the opportunity to sit and chat with them.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I would recommend staying in the kasbah if you prefer a quieter, more authentic experience in Marrakech.
Marrakech is a culinary delight for all foodies out there.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The streets of Marrakech are abundant with fresh, seasonal vegetables and fruit.
There are herbs and spices galore everywhere you look.
The aromatic fragrance of street food fills the air, tempting the tastebuds.
Fine restaurants with impeccable service, in beautiful surroundings, call out to you to come inside and sample their cuisine.
But where do you start?
What do you order?
If you’re anything like me, you may want to fully immerse yourself in the culture of places you’re visiting.
I particularly enjoy sampling the signature dishes of places I visit and eating the same food that the locals do.
It’s a way to get to know the culture, and food is a big part of life in Morrocco.
The locals are very hospitable people and often invite tourists home for a meal with their family.
If you get the chance, go it’s the best way to gain understanding of the people and their hospitality.
So,with an overwhelming choice of food to choose from, you may need a little help to decide what to try..
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The two most popular dishes in Marrakesh are tagine and couscous.
Tagine is the name of the clay or ceramic pot that the dish is cooked in.
It consists of layers of fresh vegetables,with meat in the centre.
Chicken or lamb is the most popular.
Often, dates, olives, fresh lemon, and spices are added for flavour, and everyone has their own personal recipe for making a tagine.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Couscous is a grain made from semolina and served with meat and vegetables.
It is eaten religiously on Fridays.
In Jamaa El Fna, you will find sheeps head and snails for sale.
Tourists are targeted by street food vendors to try snails, and those who actually do say that they quite enjoyed the experience.
Apparently, the broth that they’re cooked in is quite tasty, and although it’s an unusual tasting dish, it’s not inedible.
Sheeps head is for the brave amongst us, but it appears to be popular in the main square and a regular sight on display during the evening.
The locals sit at street stalls eagerly munching on the spit roasted mutton, enjoying every morsel.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Every dish is served with traditional bread in Marrakech. It is freshly baked each morning and delicious served warm.
Tangier is also a popular dish.
It is meat (usually lamb), cooked very slowly in the embers of the local hammam.
Traditionally, the tangier is taken to the hammam early in the morning and left to cook throughout the day.
It is then collected and served for dinner with vegetables or bread.
The meat is incredibly tender and simply falls off the bone.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
There are plenty of street food vendors in the medina, tucked away in the souks.
They serve really good quality food and it’s cheap.
Ideal for travellers on a tighter budget.
There is a row of street food vendors who only sell tangiers, and this is very popular with locals and tourists alike.
The area gets busy as people queue for a vessel of succulent lamb tipped out onto a plate ready for devouring.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Taking a street food tour is a great way to get to try the best places.
There are several tours available during the daytime or evening, and tourists get the chance to sample authentic Moroccan cuisine with a registered guide.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech caters to vegetarians and vegans also, with a good choice of quality food including excellent salads, delicious vegetable tagine, pastilla, and couscous.
Pigeon is also widely eaten in Marrakech and traditionally used as a filling in pastilla.
Then there are the camel burgers, popular at The Clock restaurant in the kasbah.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Several Italian restaurants in the medina offer excellent pizzas and pasta dishes if you fancy a change from morroccan food.
Olives are served with tea and other beverages as a complimentary side dish.
They can be spicy or plain, always fresh, and the perfect aperitif.
They are deliciously fresh when bought straight from the vendors themselves.
Don’t hesitate to try some. They are truly amazing.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The sweets and pastries in Marrakech are incredibly good, and the desserts served after the main course of a meal are beautiful.
Moroccans have a sweet tooth as you will probably gather from the breakfasts.
The choice on most menus is really good and varied.
There’s no point watching your waistline here..
Dates are hugely popular, and medjool dates are known as ‘ fruits of the King’, so make sure to try some.
You won’t be disappointed.
Fresh fruit is for sale everywhere around the medina and incorporated into tantalising sweet dishes that make your mouth water.
NB: I have written a separate article about smoothies and juices in Marrakesh.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech is a dream come true for people who love their food.
With so much to choose from and so many different dishes and flavours to try, you would need months to eat your way through it all.
Not only is there a great variety of interesting and tasty food, but it’s beautifully presented too.
Imagine sitting in a tranquil, setting, next to exotic plants, and trickling fountains.
That’s my experience of eating in Marrakesh..
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The way to get to know people and their culture is through their food.
Marrakech is no exception.
Be open to getting out of your comfort zone and give some of the traditional Moroccan dishes a go..
What every female should know before arriving in the red city.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I would say that Marrakech is perfectly safe for women who travel alone..
The overall crime rate is relatively low, and most female travellers have a wonderful experience.
However, there are certain things to consider to help you feel confident and fit into Moroccan society.
Women in Marrakech dress modestly.
How you want to be treated will depend on how you present yourself.
Although Marrakech is a Muslim city, it is quite liberal and used to tourists, but showing too much flesh would be considered inappropriate.
Whilst you’re not expecting to adopt the hijab, you will certainly be regarded favourably if you dress slightly more conservatively.
Long, silk, or cotton dresses are perfect and keep you cool at the same time.
Palazzo trousers are comfortable and elegant.
I wore turbans, and I loved that my hair was tucked away, keeping me from feeling too hot whilst feeling sophisticated.
Many tourists wear the same style of clothing that they would back at home, so it’s really a matter of choice.
I would certainly encourage dressing appropriately if you’re visiting religious sites, though.
It’s a matter of respect.
You’ll notice how happy a small gesture like this makes the locals happy.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The people in Marrakesh are friendly and hospitable.
There may be situations where you will be asked if you need help to find your riad or the main square.
Simply decline the offer politely and go about your business.
Stand your ground when negotiating a price for something. Show you are confident and don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not happy.
Some men may cat call or make comments, which may feel slightly intrusive.
Ignore them and move away. If anyone follows you, find a shop vendor or restaurant to sit in or threaten to find a police officer.
It’s rare that this happens, though, and police are everywhere around Marrakech, making sure that tourists are not hassled.
Knowing a few words in Arabic or French is always useful.
‘Non merci’ or ‘La Shukran’ for ‘no thank you’ will automatically bring a smile to the locals’ faces.
On the whole, I have never felt uncomfortable as a solo female traveller in Marrakech.
There are plenty of us about wandering through the souks and enjoying the tourist hot-spots.
Consider using a tour guide or joining a guided tour of the medina if you’re slightly anxious about exploring by yourself or if it’s your first time.
There are night tours, street food tours, and registered guides for visiting the local attractions.
Marrakech is a great place to visit as a solo female traveller if you treat it the same way as you would any other country wandering around by yourself.
In some ways, I would consider it safer than some European countries.
Most local people can’t wait to tell you all about their fascinating city.
Educate yourself on the cultural norms and differences and respect the local customs and traditions, and you will be perfectly safe.
You could carry a personal alarm with you if it helps you to feel less vulnerable.
Overall, you will feel perfectly safe.
Marrakech is very touristic, and there’s always crowds of people around.
Just be extra vigilant in busy, congested areas with your belongings.
The same way you would be anywhere else in the world.
Relax and trust that the people of Marrakech are friendly, kind, and caring.
Whilst it’s true that Marrakech is a meat eaters’ paradise, there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes serving vegetarian and vegan food.
Not being a meat eater myself, I was initially concerned that I’d spend my time in Marrakesh living off the delicious olives on sale in the souks.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I was pleasantly surprised.
There are a number of restaurants popping up that serve only vegetarian and vegan food.
One I highly recommend is La Famille.
Run solely by women, and in a pleasant outdoor setting, the food here was incredibly good.
The menu was small and creative and changed regularly to keep it exciting.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
There are plenty of choices for non meat eaters on the menu in most restaurants and cafes around the medina.
Sumptuous vegetable tagine, vegetable couscous, salads, and pasta dishes, to name just a few.
I never had a problem sourcing tasty and beautifully prepared meals whilst staying in Marrakesh.
The smaller cafes tucked away in the souks were slightly less accommodating, but if it’s a quick snack you’re looking for, the fresh olives and delicious pastries are a wonderful treat.
In the more luxurious restaurants, there is a good deal of variety for vegetarians and vegans.
The abundance of freshly cooked seasonal vegetables is mouth wateringly delicious.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Harissa soup was also a favourite of mine, deliciously tasty, served with traditional Morroccan bread.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I highly recommend trying the soup.
Some restaurants serve a healthy brunch.
I loved the avocado toast at La Ferme and again at Mandala Society.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The Clock in the kasbah does a really nice vegetable pastilla.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Please don’t be put off visiting Marrakech because you consider it to be a meat eaters paradise only.
By doing a little bit of research before travelling, you will find a good selection of fine restaurants and cafes serving authentic and traditional Morroccan cuisine that don’t include animal products.
A few I recommend are;
. La Famille
. La Ferme
. Enjoy your meal
Veggie Lovers.
. Mandala Society.
. Broc The Kasbah.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Palais Donab also does a lovely vegetable tagine, and it’s a beautiful place to have lunch or dinner.
I have written a separate article about Palais Dar Donab.
Write down the restaurants you wish to try before travelling, including their address and opening times.
This will save wandering around in the heat, looking for places suitable for your dietary preference.
Marrakech is a safe place for travellers with a relatively low crime rate, but scams can happen.
Like any other destination, there are several things to be mindful of as a first-time visitor to the red city.
There are a few potential scams that visitors for the first time to Marrakech should know about.
.The road is closed.
This is a regular scam that can leave tourists confused.
You’re trying to locate your riad or a point of interest, and someone (usually a young male) tells you that the road ahead is closed.
He asks you your destination and offers to escort you via an alternative route.
Before you know it, you’re wandering endlessly through the souks until you arrive at his friends shop.
You’re still lost, and now you’re being offered mint tea whilst his friend brings out a multitude of exotic spices or rugs.
The male who took you there gets a commission for safely delivering you there.
Slightly more if you buy.
If you’re approached in this way, a firm no thank you or La shoukran usually does the trick.
If he is very persistent, head to a nearest trader, and ask their advice about whether the road is closed or not.
Make your boundaries clear but remain polite and try not to get too impatient.
It can be difficult if you’re tired or overwhelmed, but showing your weakness will only show how vulnerable you are feeling, and you may become a target for more opportunists.
. I can take you to your riad.
When you first arrive in the medina, you are faced with a maze of alleyways and tunnels.
Often, your riad will be tucked away inside the souks or down one of these alleyways, hidden from view.
A tourist who looks as though they’re lost will invite the so-called ‘ helpful guide’ to your side who can show you exactly where you need to go.
He will escort you, taking the long route to your riad, and then demand a payment from you.
He may become quite persistent and insult you if you refuse to cough up.
I was taken off guard seconds away from my riad.
A young male basically nudged me along the narrow alleyway shoulder to shoulder. He demanded a payment, holding his hand out as I knocked on the door of my riad.
I told him I wasn’t lost and knew where I was going and that I hadn’t requested his help. He was quite cross with me and began insulting me in Arabic.
I stood my ground and ignored him until, eventually, the door opened, and I was let inside my riad.
This can feel somewhat intimidating, but don’t give in.
There are occasions when friendly locals really do want to genuinely help you find your way, and you will be grateful for their knowledge of the area.
Especially after a long flight.
However, this is a common problem and can become irritating, to say the least, if you have luggage with you.
Marrakech has a good police presence, and, in the worst case scenario, threatening persistent hangers on with that often does the trick.
Most will back off before it gets to that situation, though.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
.Over inflated prices for tourists.
There is a price for the attractions around the medina for tourists and a price for Moroccan residents.
This happens in many countries nowadays and you can’t protest much about it.
On the other hand, prices for street food and things you might wish to purchase in the souks are often much higher than they should be.
Learn to bargain with the salesperson, try dropping around 25%, and eventually, the pair of you will reach a price you’re both happy with.
Haggling is an art form, and it takes time to feel confident, but it’s a way of life in Marrakesh and can be quite a rewarding experience when you think you’ve managed to buy something for a fair price.
If you’re not happy, shop around. There are plenty of places selling the same goods around the souks.
There are also fixed price stores such as Dar Bouchaib in the kasbah.
. Gambling games in Jamaa El Fna.
During the evening, when the square comes to life, there are a few pockets of entertainment where gambling games take place.
These are scams that involve the winners working with the person in charge of the game.
They impersonate curious onlookers and ask to take part. They win, and a prize is exchanged.
These are not genuine participants, and the likelihood of you winning a cash prize is virtually nil.
. Unofficial tour guides.
Some tourists mentioned being approached by unofficial tour guides whilst visiting some of the attractions around the medina.
Males who begin by asking where you’re from, then following you around telling you a brief history of the place.
After some time, they ask you for a fee.
If you want a genuine tour guide, check the website of the attraction you’re visiting or consider booking an activity through Get Your Guide.
Booking. Com also offers attractions with a guided tour and transport.
Payment is upfront, and the guides are very friendly and knowledgeable.
Marrakech is an amazing destination with so much to see and do.
I have pointed out a few negative aspects that you should be aware of.
You may not experience any of these things.
I have been incredibly lucky with taxi drivers who often get a bad press for inflating prices.
I have had some positive experiences with taxis and felt very safe whilst travelling back to my hotel in a remote area.
Generally, the locals are very friendly, and tourists are made to feel very welcome.
There are the occasional poor people in Marrakech who see tourists as financially secure with more money than sense.
My advice is to make your boundaries clear from the start.
Get yourself some data by buying an Orange SIM for negotiating your way around the medina, and learn a few words of Arabic or French to help you to say no thank you.
Like anywhere else in the world, keep your wits about you in crowded places, and stay calm.
A useful guide for choosing the correct clothing for your trip.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech can get very hot in summer, and temperatures can exeed 40° Celsius.
Even the cooler months can feel warm and humid, especially walking around the busy souks and popular points of interest.
Marrakech is also a conservative city with a majority Muslim population.
The locals are extremely hospitable, but respect is a big thing in Marrakech.
So, what should you wear to feel comfortable yet still appear respectable?
For female visitors, I would suggest palazzo trousers.
These are flowing and elegant, keeping you nice and cool.
They pair well with smart cotton blouses and can be worn underneath a silk kimono, adding a touch of glamour.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Lightweight cotton or linen trousers also look smart, and neutral colours give a sophisticated, modest appearance.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Silk (including recycled sari silk) maxi dresses are very versatile and keep you cool. They can be worn with a drawstring sari petticoat underneath for modesty if the dress is sheer.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Linen is perfect and always looks polished.
It may get slightly creased, so I would suggest bringing along a portable steamer. They’re a life-saver and take up very little space in your suitcase.
However, most accommodations have an ironing and laundry service at your disposal.
Cotton tee-shirts and blouses are ideal and can look very flattering with the right accessories.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Yoga pants are also perfect for a day exploring.
They are loose fitting and comfortable.
Headscarves are fashionable and can be used as a head covering whilst visiting some of the religious sights or as a convenient wrap around for covering your shoulders.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I like to wear turbans to cover my locs.
They keep my head and neck cool, and at the same time, I feel well put together.
Silk scarves roll up really small and fit perfectly in your bag.
They are versatile and can be used as a hair tie, head covering, or pretty accessory.
Marrakech is definitely more liberal than other morroccan cities. However, exposing too much flesh is definitely frowned upon.
You may attract unwanted attention from both males and females, spoiling your overall experience by making you feel self-conscious.
How you present yourself will determine the kind of experience you have in Marrakesh.
In your hotel or riad, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear shorts and swimwear for sunbathing, so pack those items of clothing also.
Males can wear knee-length shorts with linen or cotton short-sleeved shirts to look smart yet casual.
Many high-end restaurants won’t accept men wearing sandals, but smart leather sliders are deemed acceptable.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Linen or cotton long trousers for men are ideal and keep the body cool.
Men’s clothing is definitely more liberal than females.
They don’t invite the same attention but are still expected to dress for the occasion when visiting certain establishments.
I wouldn’t advise a male to walk around without a shirt on.
That is best left for beach holidays..
So, to summarise, staying smartly dressed whilst comfortable is the only thing men need to consider.
On the other hand, women are expected to respect the cultural norms of the country unless they’re going to the clubs in the Gueliz or Hivenage part of Marrakech.
It’s acceptable to dress more provocatively if you’re having a night out there.
You can still look and feel good in appropriate clothing.
It’s about choosing nice accessories to elevate your outfit.
Marrakech has no shortage of beautiful jewellery and handbags.
Regarding footwear, there is a lot of walking around the medina, so comfortable footwear is certainly essential.
Trainers, pumps, or sandals are all acceptable.
A little tip I found useful is to take a couple of outfits in my travel bag, and once I arrived, I bought the rest of my clothing in the souks.
It wasn’t too expensive, and I felt as if I blended in with the locals better.
I enjoyed wearing the traditional Moroccan dresses, kaftans, and djellabas.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Finally, I have never needed to take a warm coat to Marrakech.
Depending on the season and whether you plan a trip into the Atlas mountains or not, a lightweight weatherproof jacket is enough
I usually take a shawl or cardigan, and it’s always been sufficient for cooler evenings.
Winter in Marrakech is better suited to layers.
A trip to Agafay desert can get very blustery whilst watching the sunset in the open air.
A thin thermal skin worn underneath a long dress or trousers is usually enough to protect from the drop in temperature.
I wore long sleeved tee-shirts underneath my dresses during the evenings.
A comfortable hoodie can also be useful.
Keeping your eyes on the weather forecast before travelling will also help you to plan accordingly for your trip.
So, to summarise,
Wearing comfortable clothing suitable for a day exploring the medina and tourist hot spots is the most important thing to consider.
You will walk a lot, and it can get humid.
To discourage unwanted attention and negative vibes from the locals, female travellers should refrain from dressing too provocatively.
Unless they’re in the bars and clubs, which are more liberally minded.
Choosing natural fibres is the best way to stay cool, and long, loose-fitting garments are ideal because they look modest and feminine.
Lastly, don’t forget to bring the sunscreen.
You don’t want to walk around looking like a lobster.
There is everything that you could possibly dream of buying in the wonderful souks of Marrakech.
As you meander through the maze of colourful alleyways, be prepared for a complete assault on the senses.
From beautiful jewellery to exotic spices, leather shoes and bags, to Morroccan lamps and ceramics.
It’s all here crammed into narrow alleyways and calling out to be bought and taken back home with you.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The skilled craftsmanship is astonishing, and you can find areas dedicated to making and selling different things.
There is a separate place for leather goods, a place where metal workers make beautiful Moroccan lamps and metal sculptures.
An area where wooden things are handmade and rug weaving is demonstrated.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
It’s a lovely experience watching the locals make their goods to sell, and there is also the opportunity to have a go at making things yourself, such as a pair of babouche shoes.
Berber rugs hang proudly around the medina. Each colour and pattern is a feast for the eyes.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Argan oil and morroccan black soap, orange blossom oil, and gardenia float on the gentle breeze.
The smell is so fragrant in the souks.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Wooden boxes ornately decorated with mother of pearl, chess sets, and traditional toys tempt you for the perfect souvenir to take back for your family and friends.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The soft furnishings such as cushion covers made from cactus silk are eye-catching and colourful.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Then there’s the nuts, sweets, and pastries for sale.
Moroccan sweets are a delicacy, and you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The medicinal herbs and spices are a cacophony of colours and fragrances.
Fresh olives with a hint of spice pop with colour.
Paintings and prints of traditional Morroccan doors, Amazigh people and camels crossing the Sahara desert.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
For people who love to shop until they drop like I do, Marrakech is an absolute delight.
It’s not all fun and laughs, though.
The souks are incredibly busy with tourists.
You also have to dodge motorcycles, donkeys, and vendors with carts.
You can expect to get lost, but that’s all part of the experience.
No one went into the souks and was never heard from again…
So, fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy every minute.
It’s unforgettable.
It will invoke the spirit of camel caravans and ancient trade routes from centuries ago in you.
A way to fully delve into the wonderful culture of Marrakech.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Here are a few helpful tips to help you enjoy the souks.
First of all, pace yourself.
The souks are very busy and can feel slightly chaotic at times, especially in the heat.
Stop for a drink and rehydrate.
Rest for a while, and try a spot of lunch on a rooftop cafe. There are plenty inside the souks.
Be prepared to haggle. It may seem daunting at first, but you’ll soon get the hang of it.
Stay vigilant, and keep your wits about you.
Marrakech is a safe city, but pick pocketing can happen just like anywhere else in the world.
In crowded, narrow streets, keep your possessions safe in a closed bag at the front of your body.
If you’re lost, look for signs above your head pointing you back to Jamaa El Fna.
Having an orange sim is useful but may not always work in the denser parts of the souks.
If you need help, ask a shop vendor. They’re usually more than happy to help you.
Don’t be tempted to accept directions from locals who may lead you to a friend or family members’ shop so that they can get commission if you buy something.
You may struggle to get away, and you may find yourself seated and drinking mint tea before you know it.
Take time to shop around and walk away if you don’t think you’re being offered a fair price.
You will usually find yourself being called back, and a realistic price can often be reached.
If not, the same items will most likely be found on sale elsewhere in the souks.
Exercise patience.
Remember, this is someone’s livelihood, and it’s a different culture to what you may be used to.
Wages are not very high for most people in Marrakesh, and tourists with money to spend are fair game for boosting the take-home salary of most vendors.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Although the souks can often feel overwhelming, they are an unforgettable shopping experience.
You will be dazzled by the number of weird and wonderful items on display.
The sights, sounds, and smells will stay with you a long time after you leave this fascinating city.
Join me on a fascinating journey around one of the most visited cities in North Africa.
If Africa is a peacock, Morocco is its tail.
Welcome to my blog featuring everything you might wish to know about Marrakech.
Here, I will include my own personal stories, experiences, and adventures during my time spent in my favourite Moroccan city.
My name is Freebird Tracey, and I’ve been a regular visitor to Marrakech for many years.
As a solo female traveller, I have always felt safe travelling around Marrakech. The friendly locals are incredibly hospitable which makes Morocco a wonderful place to visit.
Whenever I visit Marrakech, people are so helpful and always with a big smile across their faces.
Nothing is too much trouble for them.
For me, this is what makes Marrakech so special.
I believe I have found my ‘happy place’ in the sunshine, amongst the fragrant orange blossom, the vibrant colours, and the magical sights and sounds of Jamaa El Fna.
Marrakech is a diverse and magical city, steeped in history.
From its beautiful Islamic architecture to the culinary delights and fine craftsmanship on display, there is something to tempt the senses on every corner.
I never get tired of exploring this alluring and magnetising corner of our planet.
There is always something new to see, and it’s full of little surprises.
Marrakech is an assault on the senses..
Allow me to take you on a fascinating journey to North Africa and show you how to make the most of your time in Marrakech.
My main focus is on the medina, the ancient walled city, including the kasbah and mellah.
This is the heartbeat of Marrakech, the place that oozes character and has a wealth of fascinating history.
I will share some of the best places to eat, including vegetarian and vegan options.
I will tell you where to find cool bars that serve alcohol.
Suggest places to stay in the historic medina.
Show you ways you can travel to Marrakech on a budget, plus many more interesting facts and useful tips to ensure you have the best possible experience.
I will give you a few ideas on how to spend your time in Marrakech, including popular excursions, activities, and day trips.
You will also find ways to help you stay safe and avoid potential scams.
This is a tell-all blog at your fingertips.
Keep it close to hand, and use it as a reference before and during your visit to this delightful UNESCO world heritage site.
I hope you will gain some inspiration and find it helpful when planning your visit to the historical red city.
All that said, it’s time to buckle up.
Come and join me on a mind-blowing trip of a lifetime.
Let me introduce you to the sights, sounds, and tastes of Marrakech, all beautifully entwined with each other,creating what can only be described as a little piece of heaven here on earth.
Sounds Of The Souks 